18801, Montrose, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18801, Montrose, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.67 percent of the residents in 18801 has some form of health insurance. 41.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.99 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,512 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18801. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 248 health care providers accessible to residents in 18801, Montrose, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Analysis for Doctors in ZIP Code 18801 and Primary Care Availability in Montrose

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within Montrose, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18801), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician access, resource availability, and the adoption of modern healthcare practices.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, smoking cessation counseling, and prompt referral to specialists are all primary care responsibilities. A high-quality primary care system, therefore, directly impacts the prognosis and survival rates for lung cancer patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Montrose is a critical starting point. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), provide estimates. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This, in turn, negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis must consider the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of these physicians is equally important. Are primary care practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Montrose underserved? Are there transportation barriers for patients in more remote areas? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility and equity of care, influencing the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 18801 can significantly elevate the overall score. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer prevention and early detection. This includes the consistent offering of smoking cessation programs, adherence to screening guidelines (e.g., low-dose CT scans for eligible patients), and efficient referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors and schedule screenings proactively would also score higher. The analysis should identify and highlight any practices that have implemented these best practices, potentially serving as models for others.

The adoption of telemedicine is a modern healthcare trend that can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing wait times. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support for smoking cessation. Practices that have embraced telemedicine would receive a higher score, as it demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. The analysis will examine the availability of telehealth services offered by primary care physicians in the area.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the treatment that follows, can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care physicians play a vital role in identifying and addressing these issues. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. The analysis will investigate the availability of these resources within primary care practices and the broader community.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the availability of patient education materials and support groups. Providing patients with clear, concise information about lung cancer, its risk factors, and treatment options is crucial for empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, can provide patients with a valuable network of support and shared experiences. Practices that actively promote these resources would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Another factor to consider is the availability of specialized services in the region. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists is essential for comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to Montrose and the ease with which patients can access them. Delays in accessing specialized care can negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not simply a numerical value. It's a composite assessment reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of primary care services in Montrose. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of best practices, the availability of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialized care. A higher score indicates a more robust and patient-centered healthcare system, better equipped to prevent, detect, and treat lung cancer effectively.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a valuable resource for residents of Montrose, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By highlighting strengths and weaknesses, it can inform efforts to improve the quality of primary care and ultimately improve lung cancer outcomes in the community. It is a dynamic assessment, and regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

This analysis is designed to be a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in Montrose. To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of resources, physician locations, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can bring this data to life, providing a visual representation of the healthcare landscape and aiding in informed decision-making.